Khalilzad: Afghanistan Internet Shutdown “Ridiculous” and Unwise

DID Press: Former U.S. special envoy to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad sharply criticized the Taliban caretaker government’s decision to cut or restrict internet access in several provinces, calling it a step that will further isolate the country.

In a social media post, Khalilzad described the move as “ridiculous,” “unwise,” and “insulting.” He challenged the Taliban’s justification that the shutdown was aimed at “preventing immorality,” saying it reflects a deep mistrust of the Afghan people.

Referring to the rollout of restrictions in Balkh province, Khalilzad questioned the Taliban leadership in Kandahar: on what basis do they assume that the people of Balkh use the internet solely for pornography? He called this assumption both offensive and dangerous.

Khalilzad noted that if the Taliban’s primary concern is the dissemination of immoral content, they could implement targeted filtering, as is done in many other Muslim-majority countries, rather than shutting down the internet entirely.

He warned that the decision not only damages Afghanistan’s international reputation but also poses serious obstacles to development, education, communication, and investment.